Hiatus from the City

Hola, mi Gente. The time has come for me to take some time away from NYC. As I prepare to exit, I have comfort in knowing that this is my decision. While my current circumstances are not ideal, I made the decision to leave. I chose to leave the rat race. I chose to move on from the madness. I chose to leave behind the land of ‘only in [New York].' I did all this in pursuit of balance and a better understanding of my purpose in life.

My hiatus is a bit sudden and uneasy. However, I have solace and gratitude in knowing that I can always go home. And that’s where I’m heading – the Collins Spa* in Sherwood, Arkansas. The Collins Spa is a comfortable, all-inclusive, inexpensive establishment. On-site amenities include a Five-star chef (better known as Mom), an on-call concierge (also known as Dad), and an expansive yard with a small functional vegetable garden as well as peaceful surroundings (my neighborhood).

While I will miss New York City and the great friends and associates I made during my tenure here, I welcome my return trip to the Collins Spa. I look forward to spending time with family and friends (old and new). To my NYC friends, I may be gone; but YOU will not be forgotten. And, remember the Collins Spa takes year-round reservations. Come visit!

So long, farewell, auf Wiedersehen, goodbye. I'm going home!

Written on the Long Island Railroad train to Valley Stream.

P.S. I will continue my job search from Arkansas. My passion is creating branded experiences. I am a creative and resourceful professional with experience in marketing, promotions & events. Seeking consumer or event marketing opportunities with an international brand.

*Thanks Lourdes for the catchy name.

FREE AT LAST!

Seven is the magic number. Seven years of gainful employment. Seven years of give and take. And, it came to a screeching halt with seven tragic words: "We're going to have to let you go."

Yes, folks, I am a victim of the recession. Read unemployed, downsized and now "in transition." Also, read smiling, elated, overjoyed and grateful. Don't get me wrong, losing your job is no cake walk. However, losing your job is not always a bad thing. It was a J-O-B. I went to work each day to pay the bills and to afford my luxury apartment (in Queens, no less).

Free at last. Thank goodness, I'm free at last!

With nothing but time on my hands, I can concentrate on finding a rewarding CAREER. I seek a position that I really enjoy and positively support with a company that 'fits' me. During my past two months of freedom, I have started to re-access my skills and abilities as well as identify what truly makes me happy. I learned that I enjoy project management, guiding people, and 'connecting the dots' - basically I enjoy getting things done! I also value ideation and creativity as well as travel (see post below for more on my travels).

As my journey of self and professional discovery continues, I am looking forward to the new places and ventures it leads me. My destination is PASSION. And, after all the seminars, workshops, and mental exercises...I am confident I will land on the ground with both feet...IN CHANEL BOOTS!